Matt Asiata

Adrian Peterson's absence gave Asiata another opportunity to show that he can be a lead back in the NFL, but instead he emphatically proved he isn't up to the task. The sixth-year player has slimmed d...

Asiata was re-signed by the Vikings in March of 2016 after a 2015 campaign in which he appeared in all 16 games while notching 112 yards on 29 carries to go along with 19 receptions for 132 yards. Adrian Peterson will once again lead the backfield in Minnesota throughout 2016, with Jerick McKinnon expected to enter the season as his main backup. Asiata failed to score a single touchdown throughout the 2015 season, but a slightly improved offensive line could help the 28-year-old bruiser in short-yardage situations near the goal line.

2015

An almost fullback-sized 6-0, 234 pounds, Asiata was thrust into the starting job last season following Adrian Peterson's suspension, and quickly demonstrated both his strengths and liabilities. He runs with the power you'd expect from a player his size, and his low pad level allows him to break tackles, grind out extra yards and be a force in short-yardage situations, but he lacks the foot speed or elusiveness to break many big gains. In fact, his longest run last year went for just 19 yards, and the Vikings gradually dialed back Asiata's role as the season progressed to form a backfield committee with the flashier Jerick McKinnon. Despite Peterson's tumultuous 2014, he's still expected back in Minnesota to resume his duties as the lead back, but Asiata's effectiveness at the goal line and Peterson's own advancing odometer may result in Asiata retaining a somewhat significant role.

2014

Asiata was a hero to Adrian Peterson owners (and riverboat gamblers who rolled him out) in Weeks 15 and 17 last year, delivering a three-touchdown performance and a 115-yard game, respectively, in the injured star's stead. This year, with Toby Gerhart out of the picture, he's got the line on backup duties in Minnesota. But even though AP is susceptible to injury, it's hard to get excited over the plodding Asiata, whose 4.77 40 time may be the worst among all NFL running backs. The Vikings drafted Jerick McKinnon in the third round, and it seems likely that even if something does happen to Peterson, Asiata will at best split time with the electric rookie.

2013

Asiata will work as a reserve back and special teams player in 2013.

2012

Asiata will try to win a reserve running back role, but he's a special teamer at best.